NMC to ensure higher journalistic standards

Kumasi, July 23, GNA- Mr Alex Bannerman, Deputy Executive Secretary of the National Media Commission (NMC), has said that the objective of the Commission is to ensure higher journalistic standards in the country.

He has therefore, assured media practitioners that the Commission as part of its duties, would monitor and supervise the work of media practitioners to ensure the attainment of that objective. Mr Bannerman was addressing the closing ceremony of the two-day seminar on political reporting for media personnel organised jointly by the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), the NMC and the Electoral Commission (EC) in Kumasi on Friday.

The workshop, attended by 30 media practitioners selected from the Ashanti and Brong-Ahafo regions and sponsored by the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, had the theme: "Fair And Objective Reportage For The 2004 Electioneering Process".

He commended the immense role and contributions of journalists in educating the people on many issues including political, socio-economic and cultural developments.

Mr Bannerman stressed the need for them to be circumspect in their reportage and avoid negative statements that would create tension and problems.

The Deputy Executive Secretary noted that the presidential and parliamentary elections this year posed greater responsibility on journalists and urged them to work harder to ensure free and fair elections.

Mr Alfred Monney, an executive member of the GJA, was happy about the high level of performance and participation exhibited by the participants.

He asked them to highlight on issues, which would ensure peace before, during and after the elections.